Milan, February 3 – Twelve children, aged one and two, and four adults – three teachers aged 31, 34, and 42, and a 39-year-old father – from a nursery school in Viale Certosa 34, Milan, required medical attention following a carbon monoxide leak. The incident, which occurred around 9:00 AM on Tuesday, prompted an immediate response from emergency services.
Emergency Response and Initial Assessment
The alarm was raised around 9:00 AM on Tuesday morning. Firefighters from the central station on Via Messina, along with experts from the NCR Unit, were dispatched to the scene to identify the source of the leak. Paramedics from 118 established a triage area where the affected individuals were examined.
Following initial assessments, the four adults were transported to Niguarda and San Paolo hospitals with yellow and green codes, indicating non-life-threatening conditions. Eleven children were taken to Niguarda, San Carlo, San Paolo, Buzzi, and De Marchi hospitals for further evaluation and treatment.
Cause of the Leak Identified
After a thorough inspection of the building, firefighters determined the cause of the carbon monoxide leak. It was discovered that construction workers, who were carrying out renovation work, had inadvertently blocked a chimney flue. This obstruction led to the accumulation of boiler fumes, which subsequently saturated the nursery school premises.
Impact on the Community and Ongoing Investigations
The incident highlights the potential dangers of carbon monoxide, often referred to as the “silent killer” due to its odorless and colorless nature. Fortunately, prompt action by emergency services ensured that all affected individuals received timely medical care, and none are reported to be in serious condition.
Authorities are expected to continue their investigation into the exact circumstances that led to the blocked chimney flue and to ensure that all safety protocols were followed during the renovation work. This event serves as a crucial reminder for the importance of regular checks and maintenance of heating systems and flues, especially in buildings frequented by vulnerable populations such as young children.
The local community has expressed relief that the incident did not result in more severe consequences, and wishes a speedy recovery to all those affected.
